Fall Flower Arrangements

When I make flower arrangements I don't ever what it to feel overly themey or literal. I want them to feel a little rustic and throw together, but overall pretty. I love the idea of mixing pastels, with bright whites, and rich purples and maroons.

I put this bundle together for a shoot recently- I will share further details soon. I chose fresh bright white lilies, protea- one of my favorite falls additions, pink roses, and soft lavender baby's breath. I also brought in a lot of leafy greens to break things up a little. I think tulips would have also been pretty, ranunculus, and additionally if you were using this as a centrepiece for thanksgiving, you could embellish this with pears, or small apples!!

What are your favorite fall flowers?

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

The Perfect Chocolate Cheesecake

TGIF ALL!! To end off the week, I wanted to share a quick and easy recipe for the easiest, most delicious chocolate cheesecake. This is a perfect dessert to whip together (literally) the night before you have guests, or to even serve warm( so, so good....)

You don't even need a mixer, it may all be done by hand with a whisk. I did use a mixer, sped up the process a little!

What to Buy:

For the Crust:

- Chocolate Baking Crumbs

- Butter

Filling:

- 1 Bag of Semi Sweetened Chocolate Chips

- 1 Container of Ricotta Cheese

- 1 Stick of Cream Cheese

To Garnish:

- Whipping Cream

- Raspberries

- Blackberries 

- Turn oven on to 450
- In the mean time, prepare the crust. Heat half a cup of butter, in a small dish and set till it is completely melted. In a pie tin, or dish coat with a layer of two of Chocolate Baking Crumbs, depending on how thick you would like it to be. Once the butter is melted, pour over the crumbs and mix together with your fingers. Spread evenly over the base of the pan, make sure all of the crumbs have been coated in butter to ensure a solid base when you serve.

- Place in the oven, and let bake for about 15 minutes.

- While you are waiting for the crust to set, you must melt the chocolate. You can do this by placing it in a sauce pan, micro wave, or like I did, place in a bowl that is placed on a sauce pan filled with water, so it will heat it slowly and will not burn. Stir regularly.

- In a large bowl, combine 3/4 of a container of ricotta, and 1 pack of cream cheese. Add a few teaspoons of icing sugar depending on how sweet you would like it to be.

- Remove the crust from the oven

- When the chocolate is melted, there will be enough to add a layer to the crust which will later solidify, and will be AMAZING!!!

- Add the remaining chocolate to the mixture of ricotta & cream cheese, and stir together

- Place in the oven for 45 minutes.

Let cool over night, or serve warm- either way is super YUMMY!!

Enjoy- try not to eat the full plate!

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Kale Chips

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Shaggy

Just a quick update- I have been incredibly busy as of late. With work, Elle and Be, class, design projects etc, it has been insane lately! Last night we welcomed a wonderful surprise! The Rug From Rug USA arrived! It got here so quick- I rolled it out last night, it ROCKS! We love it, Bruce loves laying on it too! ;) Here are two pics from my Instagram- I will post better ones when I get a chance!!  

By the way- quality is amazing, very soft to touch, perfect amount of shag, very speedy deliver.. I am quite impressed!! xo

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Color Palette

Over time a color palette has been created throughout our home. White walls are the canvas which we have layered with color. I am not sure if it has been a conscious decision (in some cases yes) but I have repeated the same colors throughout over and over. In terms of designing our space, I didn't really have a plan. I did have a layout and an idea of what scale/proportions(of non- existing items) I wanted, but as far as color went, I just buy what I love, and let that take form naturally. Whenever I paint something, or add a new addition to the space it just so happens to be in the colour family of the hues displayed above. Funny how we become accustomed to what we like. I have about 10 different shades of lipsticks, glosses and tints, all within a shade of each other. If I like something I continue to incorporate it into my life, even if it isn't completely apparent to me! Isn't that strange! We are after all creatures of habit! 

Here is how to create a color palette: 

-Begin with a print or fabric that you really love

- Look for colors that will be complimentary

- Layer textured fabrics over top/ layer with decorative objects in color scheme desired

- Find a theme and play on that- not too literal

- Buy colors within the same family, and experiment with different shades

Have a great weekend!! xoxo

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

A Day in the Life

I realized that I don't share enough about my day to day, pictures of myself, while I am out and about. I wanted to start a new series where I share little tidbits of my world, I am always taking pictures of well, everything, so might as well show my friends!! Here are a bunch of pics from my life lately. No I don't have Instagram.... wah wah. 

1. Loved this sheepskin covered pouf at Mi Casa in Cabbagetown. Love the tray styling too- so pretty and feminine.
2. Waiting at the theater after seeing The Great Gatsby (GO SEE IT- so stunning throughout) Favorite summer drink= Iced Soy Chai Latte. Bracelets J.Crew & Forever 21. Best to mix High and Low.
3. Ranunculus at my local greenhouse- can't wait to showcase some of these beauties on our balcony this summer.
4. Totally in love with the phenomenally cool photography of Slim Aarons- have been following for a while now. Lifestyles of the Rich and the Famous. This would look so happy on my coffee table!!

5. Maximizing in this striped dress. I didn't buy it, went back, sold out. What to do. Hells Bells.
6. Location scouting this AMAZING location downtown Toronto. Malaparte by Oliver and Bonacini- this picture doesn't do it justice. The view is amazing, night time will be even cooler- can't wait.
7. Shopping in Chinatown the other day- natural rock galore.
8. Sandal shopping- would these stay on?? I am in need of cute neutral sandals.

9. Went for a lunch date with Tiffany from Tiffany Leigh Interior Design on Monday. She was SOOO incredibly sweet & funny. I LOVE meeting Blog friends in person so much fun, so much to talk about- we went to Earls, I got sushi rolls and salad. Yum.
10. Trying on summer dresses. For me this dress is my jam. I like to keep it simple. I bought it. Good Grief I have White legs.
11. I love this city- beautiful park on Church Street and King- full of lovely tulips.
12. Lunch date with Blayre at Canteen. Baja Fish tacos & Edamame Salad. The Best.

13. Barnacle love- have always loved this piece at Mi Casa.

14. Bruce stretching out- look how cute is that. I melt.

15. Trying on a childrens dress at Old Navy. Yep saw someone else do it so I followed suit- I loved it, but feared if even the slightest breeze were to sweep by, I may be revealing TMI. If I had a daughter though she would be wearing this number in 2 shakes...

16. Blayre and I picked up a few of these fab coffee cups, acrylic handles, glass cups. SO CHIC. from Loblaws Maple Leaf Gardens.

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Hide & Seek

Hope you had a great weekend and Mother's Day, today I am off to meet a fellow blogger I have planned to meet for a while! So excited!! Here is some cuteness in the meantime! xoxo

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services Always Stay Graceful, L.

Art

Last week I did a last minute art project in the bedroom. As you might already know I have had a difficult time pulling together the details of our top floor as it serves as an office as well, and so little by little I have been making improvements. Here is the art that was here previously- it really needed a facelift, it was a good piece(nautical inspired) but didn't fit into the space. I love water colour, and since I want to carry blues and greens into the decor this was the perfect colour combination. The frame is sleek and modern, and I love how it freshened up this corner of the room! 

Thanks Sundeep for the shout out yesterday- can't wait to see the finished product!! I will keep you posted. xoxo

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Lucite + Brass

I wanted to kick off Monday by celebrating a fabulous new addition to our living room. Friday afternoon Blayre and I drove to Collingwood to pick up this lovely lady. I had my eye on it for months, and finally took the plunge. White I loved our old coffee table, it was too small in this space. The scale was really off, and it looked like it was floating on the area rug. This table is definitely on the larger side of the scale however it provides the seating on the other side of the room with a surface to place their drink, so it is very practical. Also, because it is transparent, it doesn't feel bulky and oversized. The surface is bright and reflective, the legs sparkle, and the brass is  über feminine. Lets just say, I am in LOVE(Blayre thinks she is pretty hawt too). While I have the floor this piece makes me so happy because it is so large that it is hard to over decorate it, I can just go nuts and it still feels light and bright.... Literally every time I see it I squeal! 

What did you do this weekend? Any scores? Please share!

If you'd like help creating a home you absolutely love, contact me about my design services

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Bobbette & Belle

Are you a lover of cupcakes and other goodies? Live in the Toronto area? You must go to Bobbette & Belle - Adorable name right? Even before we moved to Toronto, I came across this pastry and cake shop in House & Home magazine, and was instantly taken by how pretty and feminine it was! I knew that if I were to visit Toronto I would have to visit ASAP, cut to 3 years later, and it is one of my favorites in the city! Located in the Toronto's East end (Leslieville) this chic parlour houses an assortment of pastries including tarts, macarons, and cupcakes of course! This afternoon Blayre and I took clients here for a shoot, which was the prettiest backdrop! As soon as you walk into this chic salon, it is hard to choose what to look at first, all of the desserts are so beautifully made(they taste as good as they look) and the decor is just lovely! It would be such a fabulous place to host a tea party, or evening with the girls, a brunch, or birthday!
Today we saw a grandmother with her daughter and grandchildren enjoying hot chocolate and desserts, and I thought what a beautiful tradition that would be to recreate!
I promise you if you love eye candy and sweet treats Bobbette and Belle is worth the trip to Leslieville, enjoy and treat(or two) and shop around the cute antique shops across the street. Blayre even loves it!! 

A big Thank you to the team at Bobbette & Belle for the fab opportunity! Blayre insisted we bring a dozen cupcakes home, but I knew that I was in danger if we were to do that. We settled on half a dozen, a perfect treat to come home to tonight and enjoy with a cup of tea!!

When we are done the edit I will post! In the mean time check out Elle & Be if you want to have a peek at our work!! xo

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Ready to Wear

Two Tone Belt /Boots/ Tote/  Studs/ Collar Necklace/ Kate Spade Watch/ Jacket

Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes yesterday, it really made my day. What is so interesting about birthdays are all of the surprise phone calls, and messages that come out of the woodwork. It is a perfect time to reconnect, a great opportunity to catch up with people you have missed over the years, I think that is one of the many gifts that it allows. I love catching up with old friends, sometimes I am not brave enough(which may seem silly) but it sometimes take a moment like a birthday to reconnect to reach out to someone you care about, but feel that too much time has passed. Anyhow I had an amazing day, I had my sister and my boyfriends sister all day to hang out with. It was such a treat to spend time with them along with my boyfriend. While my sister does like in Toronto, Blayre's does not, so it was great to all be together! Blayre took me out for dinner last night, it was just lovely. We went to BLU Restautrant in Yorkville it was amazing, I am still stuffed. Diet must recommence. BUT GO if you are in Toronto, AMAZING. 

About the post above. Yes. I am always looking for classic easy pieces to add to my closet. Love a little edge, but comfort and transition is also important to me. I love feminine touches on more masculine pieces, I like to funk things up while remaining refined. I am in the market for a coat for evening, I love the one above with the leather sleeves, although I think I want a monochromatic look for night, something navy or black. I am also on a search for a great ankle boot that I can wear from day to night, that won't kill my feet or back! These are cute, not sur about the 3 buckles, I need to scope them out in person, I walk a lot in the summer, so I need a lower heel. Any suggestions would be fab!! 

Have a great day my friends! 

xoxo

Some pics of Bruce and I last night after dinner

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Laura Collins Design will provide you with insight and guidance on how you can turn your home or office into a stylish reflection of your unique personality. Please contact me if you are interested in discussing the different design services I offer.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

New Heights

Today I am 27. Wow, where did the last year go? It is really crazy, this past year has been filled with a lot of personal growth, growth in my relationship, confidence in my design career, milestones for our wedding company. I think a lot more about the scheme of things these days, and how important it is to take in the moment, tell people how much I love them, and be grateful for all of the fortunes I have been granted. I am not wealthy by any standards, but I am so lucky to have a Mother that means the world to me, and sister who is the best friend I could ever ask for, I am in a relationship with my best friend, a father/stepfather I love, grandmothers I adore, my darling Bruce.... I could go on, and on...I feel blessed in so many ways. I want to make this year the best year. This year is going to be filled with hard work, less stress, not as much fear towards failure, more attempts at greatness, and as much love as I can give. It is time to push myself, not feel defeated easily, 27 is going to be a great year. 

Tonight we are going out- I don't know where though- I'm excited! Keeping it low key, I celebrated with my parents over the weekend, nothing crazy....I think i will wait till 30 to do a big blow out :)

For some time I have wanted to add another row to the top of my pictures in the living room. I wanted the eye to be drawn further up. I think it makes the ceiling look higher, and the look is more complete now. I LOVE it- I also incorporated some pink into the design, I like to do sneaky things like that. Blayre is a good sport though, he just let's me run wild... I'm an Aries(which means I am fiery) and when I get the urge to create I can't be stopped!

What do you think? Would you do a whole wall floor to ceiling? Too much? Or do you love the idea of having a gallery style wall?

Don't forget to leave a comment for my CUSTOM ART GIVEAWAY!! 

Laura Collins Design will provide you with insight and guidance on how you can turn your home or office into a stylish reflection of your unique personality. Please contact me if you are interested in discussing the different design services I offer.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

The Carrie Diaries & Steam Pop

How was your weekend? Mine included my parents coming for my godmother's surprise party, a celebration for my mothers birthday, and my upcoming birthday celebration. While my parents were here we went to Spice Route(a favorite King West restaurant),walked around a little(there is never enough time- Just move here already!!), we also had the opportunity to stop by a music video production my boyfriend is working on with an artist named Kiesza. I can't wait to share the final product with you, the song rocks! Her signature style is called Steam Pop, and she is like no other- she also happens to be Blayre's sister :) I am so proud of her!

Here are a few pics of the artist I took, as well as a few pictures of the production!

On another note, I was chatting with a friend the other day who happens to be moving to one of my favorite cities- Vancouver. She had Carrie Bradshaw made-over apartment look in mind, so I whipped this up.... I have always loved this space as well, feminine with edge. The perfect mix!! See board above! I need to kick my butt into major work mode this week. 

P.S. I will be 27 tomorrow. Pretty Crazy.

 Kiezsa the artist with her signature "Steam Hawk" this girl is a superstar

 Styling things up- time for a shoot

Kiesza werkin' the room

Blayre hard at work!! I love watching him shoot, so much fun to see behind the scenes!

My parents (on the left) with Blayre's parents(right) Love these guys!! 

Carrie's Redesigned Digs

Don't forget to stop by my Art Giveaway, Custom Art- Delivered to you- I will draw the Winner on Friday Morning! 

Laura Collins Design will provide you with insight and guidance on how you can turn your home or office into a stylish reflection of your unique personality. Please contact me if you are interested in discussing the different design services I offer.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.